Exposure to Messages on Risk Factors for Noncommunicable Diseases in a Rural Province of Vietnam

BACKGROUND: Providing messages on risk factors for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) plays an important role in preventing disease. OBJECTIVES: This study investigated how often adults living in a rural area in northern Vietnam heard about risks factor for NCD and where they obtained that information. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a multistage stratified cluster sampling to recruit 2970 participants. Data analyses were adjusted for all variables in a two-level multilevel Poisson regression model. RESULTS: Overall, 77% of respondents had heard about NCDs, while 38.3 to 50% had been exposed to messages on risk factors of NCDs in the last month. Television, radio, and friends/neighbors were the most common sources of information. Most people exposed information no more than one or two sources. Factors associated with exposure to messages about risk were occupation, age group, education, and economic status. CONCLUSION: Intervention programs should focus on providing information primarily through television, considering influencing factors as well ensuring that messages reach target audiences.